LECLIPSE87RBCRK vs LEXLBKMBLKREDBS — Compare
ESP LTD Eclipse 87 Electric Guitar in Rainbow Crackle Finish vs ESP LTD EXL Black Metal Electric Guitar in Black Red Burst Satin
The Eclipse '87 emphasizes classic 1980s articulate tone with dual Seymour Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo, suiting players who want vintage character and tonal versatility. The EXL Black Metal focuses on modern, aggressive metal tones with a high-output EMG 81 and TOM bridge, better for players committed to extreme genres and drop tunings.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
ESP LTD Eclipse 87 Electric Guitar in Rainbow Crackle Finish
ESP LTD EXL Black Metal Electric Guitar in Black Red Burst Satin
Specs side by side
| ESP LTD Eclipse 87 Electric Guitar in Rainbow Crackle Finish | ESP LTD EXL Black Metal Electric Guitar in Black Red Burst Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,249.00 | $1,199.00 |
| Brand | ESP LTD | ESP LTD |
| Series | LTD TE | LTD Black Metal |
| Body Type | Solid | — |
| Scale | 24.75" Scale | 24.75" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 24 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ebony | Ebony |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | — | Neck-Thru-Body |
| Pickup Configuration | — | H |
| Bridge | Tremolo | Tune-O-Matic / Stopbar |
| Year | 2021 | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose ESP LTD Eclipse 87 Electric Guitar in Rainbow Crackle Finish
- ✓ Dual Seymour Duncan pickups with coil-split for tonal range beyond pure metal
- ✓ Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo adds expressive pitch control
- ✓ 24 frets versus 22 on competitor
- ✓ Rainbow Crackle finish stands out visually
Why choose ESP LTD EXL Black Metal Electric Guitar in Black Red Burst Satin
- ✓ Single high-output EMG 81 optimized for tight, articulate metal tones
- ✓ Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece provide rock-solid tuning stability
- ✓ Stainless steel frets require less maintenance
- ✓ Satin finish resists fingerprints better than crackle
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar handles drop tunings better?
The EXL Black Metal is specifically designed for drop tunings with its tight low-end character and Tonepros locking bridge. The Eclipse '87 is capable but voiced more toward classic rock and metal rather than extreme tunings.
What is the main tonal difference?
Eclipse '87 delivers articulate midrange and explosive treble in a transparent, vintage 1980s voice. EXL Black Metal emphasizes tight lows, defined mids, and aggressive upper mids for modern metal clarity.
Which has more playing comfort for speed?
Both guitars share a thin U neck contour, 24.75 inch scale, and 350mm radius fingerboard for speed and comfort. The Eclipse '87 offers 24 frets versus 22 on the EXL, giving slightly more upper-register access.
Which is better for studio versus live gigging?
The Eclipse '87 suits both equally well with its Floyd Rose and dual pickups providing studio versatility. The EXL Black Metal excels live due to its locking TOM bridge and stainless steel frets, which maintain tuning stability and durability under demanding play.